European Standard Round Sling vs. American Standard Round Sling: Key Differences & Selection Guide

Round slings are widely used in lifting and rigging applications due to their flexibility, high load capacity, and ability to prevent damage to loads. However, different regions have varying standards, leading to differences between European Standard Round Slings and American Standard Round Slings in design, certification, load capacity, and more.

Standards and Certifications

European Standard Round Slings and American Standard Round Slings comply with different international standards:

• European Standard Round Sling follows EN 1492-2 and is usually CE-certified, meeting EU market safety requirements.
• American Standard Round Sling complies with ASME B30.9 (American Society of Mechanical Engineers).

Color Coding and Load Capacity

European Standard Round Sling Color Coding (EN 1492-2)

European round slings follow a standardized color coding system, where each color represents a specific Working Load Limit (WLL):

Advantage: This standardized system allows workers to identify the load capacity, reducing operational errors quickly.

American Standard Round Sling Color Coding and Load Capacity

Unlike European round slings, American round slings do not have a unified color-coding system. Different manufacturers may use varying color schemes. Instead, load capacity is clearly indicated on the label, which provides information for straight, choked, and basket hitches.

Key Differences:

• European Standard Round Sling has a fixed color coding system, making identification easy.
• American Standard Round Sling relies on label information, and colors may vary by manufacturer.

Safety Factors and Structural Design

Safety Factor

• European Standard Round Sling: 7:1 safety factor, meaning the breaking load is seven times the rated working load.
• American Standard Round Sling: 5:1, or 7:1 safety factor, depending on the specific standard and application.

Material and Structure

• European Standard Round Sling is primarily made from polyester (PES), which offers excellent wear and chemical resistance.
• American Standard Round Sling may use polyester (PES) or nylon, with nylon being more flexible but losing strength in wet conditions.

Label and Identification Information

Labels on European and American round slings contain different types of information:

European Standard Round Sling Label (EN 1492-2)

• WLL (Working Load Limit)
• Safety Factor (7:1)
• Length (L)
• Standard Compliance (EN 1492-2)
• CE Certification Mark

American Standard Round Sling Label (ASME B30.9)

• WLL for Straight, Choked, and Basket Hitch Configurations
• Safety Factor (5:1, or 7:1)
• Material Type (Polyester or Nylon)
• Standard Compliance (ASME B30.9)

Conclusion: How to Choose the Right Round Sling?

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